MST in Childhood Education

The Master of Science for Teachers (MST) in Childhood Education program provides a strong foundation for candidates who want to teach but do not have an undergraduate degree in education. Every MST candidate enrolled in our program is challenged to reflect on his or her prior notions about schools, classrooms, teaching, and learning. Differentiated instruction is emphasized and technology is incorporated into all aspects of the program. Candidates exit the program with the pedagogical knowledge, skills, and dispositions necessary to become a successful classroom teacher.

The Childhood Education Masters of Science for Teachers program is a 36-credit program which prepares candidates to teach children in grades 1-6. This program is recognized by the Association for Childhood Education International (ACEI). Upon completion of the program, candidates are eligible for the Initial Teaching Certificate in Childhood Education in New York State for grades 1-6.

This program is offered on both our New York City and Pleasantville campuses. MST candidates may choose to pursue the program on a full- or part-time basis. Candidates may not register for more than 9 graduate credits or three courses (9 credits is considered full-time study at the graduate level) in the fall and spring semesters. In addition, candidates are limited to registering for no more than one course in each of the two summer sessions, and no more than one course while student teaching. Candidates enrolled in this program should plan approximately two years to complete the Master of Science for Teachers in Childhood Education.

For
Career changers and college graduates who want to teach but do not have an undergraduate degree in education.

What you learn
The pedagogical knowledge, skills, and disposition necessary to become a successful classroom teacher, in general childhood classrooms (grades 1-6).

How you learn
This 36-credit program provides a focused exploration into the organization of schools, the different ways that students learn, and the adaptation of teaching methods to meet the needs of individual students. There is a common 12-credit core and a 15-credit specialty track. Students conclude with a 9-credit capstone experience that includes:
• A one-semester, full-time student-teaching experience
• A research course
• A capstone project

Career outcomes
After completing the program and passing the New York State Teacher Certification Exams, candidates are eligible for initial teaching certification in Childhood or Adolescent Education in New York State.

Prerequisites/Admission Requirements
Candidates must have a bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited institution, with a minimum GPA of 3.0. (Upon the recommendation of the dean, graduate faculty admissions committee, or the director of Student Support Services, candidates whose GPA is less than 3.0 may be admitted on a conditional basis, provided that it is determined that the candidate has the necessary knowledge and skills to complete the program successfully.) Childhood-level candidates must have majored in the liberal arts and sciences or its equivalent. All candidates must meet additional liberal arts and sciences course requirements mandated by New York State.